Ryan Giggs

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Of all of Sir Alex Ferguson's fledglings, Ryan Giggs is the one who has spoken most enthusiastically in following in the Scotsman's footsteps in retirement.

The Welshman revealed in October this year that "when I do finish playing, I’ll try to find the next best thing. Management does interest me. The nearer I get to finishing, the more I think about it" (via The Telegraph).

If his post-playing career is anywhere near as successful as his achievements on the pitch, he has the potential to rank as one of the greats.

Philipp Lahm

Philipp Lahm has everything a modern day footballer needs to thrive—natural ability, a keen work ethic and great intelligence.

He is not afraid to be critical of coaches or teammates, should he feel that criticism is deserved. But he is usually the first to praise others in contrasting circumstances.

The Bayern Munich stalwart has earned the respect of his peers over the course of his career, and would be sure to lead a dressing room of players into battle should he choose to become manager one day.

Tim Howard

When Tim Howard first moved to Manchester United from the MLS in 2003, much was made of what was likely to be a difficult transition from a developing league to one of the biggest clubs on the planet.

Though his time at Old Trafford was relatively short-lived, Howard has become one of the strongest leaders of any team in the Premier League at Everton, and one who has rarely looked out of his depth.

Toffees boss David Moyes recently revealed that he "is very conscientious about his work and how he goes about it. He has helped us in so many games and he is a big part of what we do. He is a big voice in the dressing room as well" (viaThe Guardian).

Javier Zanetti

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Argentina and Inter Milan legend Javier Zanetti is another consummate pro who would make the transition from player to manager appear easy.

The versatile player has been a mainstay for both club and country over the course of his career—his unquestionable work ethic and inspirational leadership has made him a natural team captain for many coaches.

He is a true role model for developing players too—he has often immersed himself in charity work and coaching for a younger generation (via Inter.it).

Alessandro Nesta

The Italian is one of the most respected players in the game today for his past contributions to both AC Milan and the Italian national team and is always the first to be asked for his opinion in press conferences and interviews with the media.

The man personifies class—it is certainly not difficult to imagine him sporting an Armani suit on the sidelines in the not too distant future.

Clarence Seedorf

Clarence Seedorf is one of the most underrated footballers in recent years.

The Dutch midfielder's technical skill and reading of the game was second to none, and he was a key factor in the success of AC Milan in the early century.

Seedorf is an incredibly eloquent speaker too, having dabbled in media-related appearances in past years. As a manager, he would have little problem in educating a team in a tactical plan before a game.

Who else in world football do you think would make a good manager after retirement?